Joan MacDonald is one of the most inspiring figures in the global fitness community today. She is living proof that it is never too late to transform your health, body, and mindset. Best known for her fitness brand Train With Joan, Joan has gone from being an unfit and overweight 70-year-old to becoming a global icon for healthy aging. Today, at 79, she continues to inspire millions of people around the world.
This blog explores Joan MacDonald’s biography, early life, health struggles, transformation story, fitness philosophy, workout routine, diet, and her impact as a social media influencer. It also answers the most searched questions about her life and career.
Joan MacDonald – Early Life and Background
Joan MacDonald was born in 1946 in Ontario, Canada. Her early life was like that of many other women of her generation — focused on family and responsibilities, with little attention paid to fitness or health. She was of average height, about 5 feet 3 inches, and over the years, like many women approaching middle age, she began to gain weight.
By the time she turned 70, Joan weighed nearly 200 pounds (around 90 kg). Her health began to decline significantly, and she faced many age-related problems, including high blood pressure, poor mobility, and dependence on medication. Despite these challenges, she remained determined to change her life.
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The Turning Point at 70
Joan’s life took a drastic turn when her daughter, Michelle MacDonald, who is a professional fitness coach, confronted her about her health. Joan was not only struggling with obesity but also facing the risk of further chronic illnesses. Michelle insisted that if Joan didn’t make lifestyle changes, her quality of life would continue to deteriorate.
In 2017, at the age of 70, Joan decided to take control of her health. This decision marked the beginning of a journey that would transform not only her body but also her life and the lives of millions who would later follow her story.
The Remarkable Transformation
When Joan began her fitness journey, she weighed 198.8 pounds and relied on multiple medications for blood pressure and other health issues. Her fitness regimen started with simple exercises, a structured meal plan, and most importantly, consistency.
Over the next few years, Joan lost more than 60 pounds, going from 200 lbs to around 120 lbs, and transformed her body composition dramatically. By the age of 75, she was lifting heavy weights, including hip-thrusting 235 lbs and deadlifting 175 lbs — feats that amazed people of all ages.
Her transformation has been featured in major publications like Women’s Health, Shape, and countless online platforms. Joan’s journey proves that with the right mindset and guidance, age is not a barrier to achieving fitness goals.
Joan MacDonald – Fitness Philosophy
Joan MacDonald’s success is rooted in her belief that it is never too late to start. She often says, “Showing up every day is your superpower.”
Her philosophy emphasizes:
- Consistency over perfection
- Strength training as a foundation for fitness at any age
- Balanced nutrition instead of restrictive dieting
- The importance of learning and evolving
- A positive mindset to overcome self-doubt
Joan’s story resonates particularly with women over 50, many of whom struggle with health, weight gain, and hormonal changes during aging.
Train With Joan – The Fitness Brand
Joan’s remarkable journey inspired her to create the Train With Joan platform, which includes:
- A dedicated fitness app for women
- Structured workout plans and programs
- Guidance on balanced nutrition
- Healthy recipes suitable for all ages
- A supportive online community
Her brand empowers older adults to regain control of their health. Through her online presence, she has built a thriving community that encourages people to focus on strength, mobility, and long-term wellness.
Joan MacDonald’s Workout Routine
Joan’s workout routine has evolved over time as her strength and fitness improved. Today, her training includes:
- Strength Training – Squats, hip thrusts, bench presses, deadlifts, and resistance training exercises for maintaining muscle mass and bone density.
- Cardio Workouts – Moderate cardio sessions to keep her heart healthy and improve endurance.
- Flexibility and Mobility Exercises – Yoga-inspired stretches and balance exercises to prevent injuries and maintain joint health.
- Progressive Overload – Increasing weights and intensity gradually to continue improving strength.
Joan trains 4 to 5 days a week, focusing on different muscle groups each day, and ensures proper recovery between sessions.
Joan MacDonald’s Diet and Nutrition
Diet has played a crucial role in Joan’s transformation. Instead of following fad diets, she focused on:
- Eating whole, nutrient-rich foods
- Consuming adequate protein to maintain muscle
- Tracking calorie intake to support fat loss
- Staying hydrated
- Enjoying healthy recipes that are sustainable long-term
She often shares her favorite recipes and meal-prep tips on her Train With Joan website and social media platforms, helping others understand that healthy eating can be simple and enjoyable.
Joan MacDonald – Social Media Presence
Joan has become a global influencer in the fitness and wellness industry. Her social media handles inspire millions:
- Instagram – @trainwithjoan with over 2 million followers
- YouTube – Joan MacDonald with over 100,000 subscribers
- Facebook – Train With Joan with over 92,000 followers
- Her website – trainwithjoanofficial.com
Joan MacDonald’s Lululemon Campaign
In 2025, Joan starred in a Lululemon commercial, becoming one of the few senior fitness influencers to represent a major global athletic brand. The campaign highlighted her message: “It’s never too late to start your fitness journey.”
This collaboration positioned her as a role model for active aging and emphasized inclusivity in the fitness industry.
Joan MacDonald – Before and After
Joan’s before-and-after story is a testament to the power of discipline and persistence.
Before (Age 70):
Weight: 198 lbs
Dependent on medications
Limited mobility and energy
Low self-esteem
After (Age 79):
Weight: Around 120 lbs
Medication-free and healthier than ever
Strong, mobile, and active
An international fitness icon
Her transformation photos and videos are among the most searched for online, inspiring millions who struggle with similar challenges.
Joan MacDonald – Personal Life and Age
Joan MacDonald was born in 1946 in Ontario, Canada. As of 2025, she is 79 years old. Her inspiring story continues to show that age is not a barrier to health and vitality.
- Height: 5 feet 3 inches
- Weight: Around 120 pounds (current)
- Birthday: 1946
- Nationality: Canadian
Joan often shares glimpses of her personal life on social media, showing her dedication to her family, her love for traveling, and her commitment to wellness.
Joan MacDonald’s Message to Women Worldwide
Joan’s story goes beyond physical transformation. She advocates for breaking stereotypes around aging and encourages women to invest in their health.
She frequently reminds her followers that strength and wellness bring freedom, independence, and confidence, especially in later years. Her mantra remains: “It’s never too late to start. Keep showing up.”
Joan MacDonald’s Impact and Legacy
Joan MacDonald has become an icon of healthy aging and a powerful voice against ageism in fitness. She inspires not only seniors but people of all ages who feel discouraged about starting their fitness journey.
Her success with Train With Joan, her active presence on social media, and her collaborations with brands like lululemon have paved the way for a more inclusive fitness industry.
Conclusion – A Role Model for All Ages
Joan MacDonald’s journey from an unfit, unhealthy 70-year-old to a vibrant, strong 79-year-old fitness influencer is nothing short of extraordinary. She has proven that discipline, persistence, and the right guidance can transform lives at any stage.
Her message resonates with anyone looking for hope, whether they are 30 or 70. Joan’s legacy will continue to inspire generations to prioritize their health, embrace strength, and never let age define their potential.
Through her brand Train With Joan, social media influence, and motivational speaking, Joan MacDonald has changed the conversation about aging and fitness forever
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